I’ve visited Paoay Church twice already in 2014 and 2019. The latest one was when I joined a PHILTOA and TPB tour in Northern Philippines a few years ago. Until now, the memory of the church still fills me with awe because of its beauty and architecture.
Now, I’ve had the opportunity to return thanks to an invitation from DOT Region 1 for a tour in Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. Our first stop was Kusina Valentin, where we indulged in their famous Pinakbet Pizza. Conveniently located in front of Paoay Church, the restaurant offered not only delicious food but also an incredible view of the church.
After enjoying some dishes at the restaurant, we ventured to explore Paoay Church. Despite the scorching sun, most of us managed to snap photos at the famous Paoay signage and explore the church’s premises.
The church’s old baroque style remained as stunning as ever. Despite ongoing construction in front, we were determined to explore every corner.
Paoay Church, also known as St. Augustine Church, was completed in 1710 after two decades of construction. It has earned its reputation as one of the Philippines’ most famous churches, not only for its rich history but also for its remarkable architecture blending baroque, gothic, Chinese, and Javanese styles.
Declared a National Cultural Treasure in 1973, Paoay Church became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1993 as part of the Baroque churches in the Philippines. Its iconic design features include the bell tower and the massive pediment, resembling a pyramid-like facade with thick walls made from coral stones.
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Paoay Church Experience
Despite the unrelenting heat, I managed to capture a full picture of the facade and admire the scenic surroundings with its lush green landscape and blue skies.
Entering the church, one might initially expect a typical interior of an old Philippine church. However, stepping inside reveals something special – the gold-plated altar with a figure of Saint Augustine.
To the left, lies a small prayer garden, known as Jardin de San Agustin, serving as a sanctuary for many visitors. Just beside it, stands the famous three-story bell tower, once used by Katipuneros as an observation post during the Spanish revolution.
After immersing myself in the church’s beauty, I stepped outside and found the DOT Region 1 staff gathered under a huge tree. It was a perfect spot to escape the heat while enjoying a splendid view of the church. I couldn’t resist taking more photos from this angle.
I just stayed there for a while admiring the facade of the church at its surroundings. I just chatted with the DOT Region 1 staff until it was time for us to board the bus going to our lunch. Yes, we just had a brunch but we still need to have lunch. The DOT Region 1 assured that we were all satisfied and well-fed.
READ THE BLOG POST: Ilocos Itinerary for 2 days (Weekend Adventure)
How to get to Paoay Church
To get to Paoay Church from Manila, you have several options depending on your preferred mode of transportation. Here are the two most common ways to reach Paoay Church from Manila:
By Air and Land
- Fly from Manila to Laoag International Airport, the nearest airport to Paoay Church. Several airlines operate flights from Manila to Laoag, with a flight duration of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- From Laoag International Airport, you can take a taxi, van, or bus to Paoay Church. The travel time from Laoag to Paoay is around 30 to 45 minutes by land.
- Alternatively, you can arrange for a pre-booked shuttle service or rent a car to take you directly from the airport to Paoay Church.
READ THE BLOG POST: Cebu Pacific: Manila to Laoag Flight Experience
By Land (Bus or Private Vehicle)
- If you prefer a land journey, you can take a bus from Manila to Laoag. Several bus companies operate routes from Manila to Laoag, with travel times ranging from 8 to 10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Upon reaching Laoag, you can then take a taxi, van, or bus to Paoay Church, which is approximately 30 to 45 minutes away.
- Another option is to drive your own vehicle or rent a car from Manila and take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) and Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) route, then continue along the MacArthur Highway until you reach Paoay Church. The travel time by car is around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and driving speed.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, Paoay Church is located along Marcos Avenue in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. Once you arrive in Paoay, you can easily find Paoay Church as it is a prominent landmark in the area.
Paoay Church Information
Address: Marcos Ave, Paoay, Ilocos Norte
Email: sanagustin_paoay@yahoo.com
Contact information: (077) 793-2030 / 0908-865-2853 / 0915-275-7998
Note: This Ilocos Tour was made possible by the DOT Region 1 and Cebu Pacific. Thank you!
